Introduction to the Incident
CULLMAN COUNTY, Ala. (WIAT/WHNT) — Three people are dead after two boats crashed in Alabama during a Major League Fishing Tournament early Wednesday.
Location and Time of the Crash
The crash happened on Lewis Smith Lake, a reservoir in the northern portion of the state, at around 7 a.m., according to the Cullman County Emergency Management Agency.
Confirmation of Fatalities and Injuries
Cullman County Coroner Jeremy Kilpatrick confirmed one person is dead. The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency identified the victim as 58-year-old Joey Broom, who died after being hit by a Nitro Bass Boat. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Multiple people were also injured in the crash. Their conditions were not immediately available.
Involvement of Major League Fishing
Major League Fishing confirmed to Nexstar’s WHNT that the "serious boating accident" happened during the second day of the Tackle Warehouse Invitational and involved a competitor, Flint Davis of Leesburg, Georgia.
Response from Authorities and Major League Fishing
“Out of respect for those involved, and to ensure the accuracy of all information, no further details will be released at this time. MLF is working closely with law enforcement and emergency officials. Additional updates will be provided as they are confirmed by the appropriate authorities,” MLF released.
Investigation and Aftermath
Authorities did not detail Davis’ involvement in the crash. WHNT did see Davis’ boat still on the lake. A park manager said he was unsure if the boats involved were all from the tournament. Images captured by WHNT, seen below, show damage to the rear of Davis’ boat as well as a helicopter that arrived on scene.
Damages could be seen on the boat of angeler Flint Davis following a multi-boat crash in Alabama on April 16, 2025. (WHNT)
Damages could be seen on the boat of angeler Flint Davis following a multi-boat crash in Alabama on April 16, 2025. (WHNT)
Damages could be seen on the boat of angeler Flint Davis following a multi-boat crash in Alabama on April 16, 2025. (WHNT)
Damages could be seen on the boat of angeler Flint Davis following a multi-boat crash in Alabama on April 16, 2025. (WHNT)
Damages could be seen on the boat of angeler Flint Davis following a multi-boat crash in Alabama on April 16, 2025. (WHNT)
Crews work to remove part of a boat following a multi-boat crash in Alabama on April 16, 2025. (WHNT)
Damages could be seen on the boat of angeler Flint Davis following a multi-boat crash in Alabama on April 16, 2025. (WHNT)
Emergency crews respond following a multi-boat crash in Alabama on April 16, 2025. (WHNT)
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is investigating the crash and will provide additional information at a later time.
Cancellation of the Tournament
The fishing tournament on Smith Lake was scheduled to run through Thursday. The tournament director confirmed to WHNT that the remainder of the competition has been cancelled. MLF’s communication director Joe Opager told WHNT that the league was working to gather additional information.
Conclusion
The incident highlights the risks and unpredictability of water sports, even at professional levels. The cancellation of the tournament and the investigation underway demonstrate the seriousness with which such incidents are treated. As more information becomes available, it will be crucial for understanding the circumstances surrounding the crash and for preventing similar incidents in the future.
FAQs
- Q: Where did the boat crash occur?
A: The crash happened on Lewis Smith Lake in Alabama. - Q: How many people were killed in the crash?
A: Three people were killed. - Q: Was the crash part of a tournament?
A: Yes, it occurred during the Major League Fishing Tournament. - Q: Is there an investigation into the crash?
A: Yes, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency is investigating. - Q: What was the outcome for the tournament?
A: The remainder of the competition was cancelled.
